A recent TripAdvisor survey has revealed that more than 90% of British travellers would now prefer to book their holiday through large travel companies in the wake of so many smaller firms collapsing.
The online travel review site surveyed 2,664 consumers who confirmed that the vast majority were more likely to book with larger companies who use well-established and trusted brands.
The results are hardly a surprise as Kiss Flights became the thirteenth travel firm to collapse within the last year, following companies such as Monster Travel, Sun4u, Goldtrail and Scottish operator Globespan.
A spokeswoman for TripAdvisor commented: “With so many holidaymakers uncertain about their rights regarding compensation and repatriation it’s perhaps not surprising that 91% of Brits are now thinking twice before choosing a travel firm they have not heard of.” She continued, “This lack of confidence could see the larger, better-known travel firms benefiting as travellers opt to stick with what they know and shun purely price-driven options.”
Whilst some people will still be led by the fact they may be able to save money by booking through lesser known companies, more and more of us now know someone who has had their travel plans effected and in some cases totally ruined by the collapse of these firms. Friends and family have been stranded abroad and many lost holidays altogether making it hit home that it could so easily happen to us. Booking through ABTA bonded (Association of British Travel Agents) and ATOL protected (Air Travel Organiser’s License) companies should ensure that if anything unfortunate does happen to spoil your holiday plans, then you can be secure in the knowledge that they will do everything to help you either get your money back or get you home should you find yourself stranded abroad.
On the down side, this could spell even more trouble for the smaller companies who are already struggling to exist.
Facebook
Twitter
Email 
